FAQs

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss happens gradually and the signs are subtle at first. It may be that people around you begin to notice the signs before you. If you struggle to follow conversations, cannot hear clearly in busy environments or find you need to listen to the TV or radio at a higher volume, don’t delay. Only a hearing test can give you a definitive answer. It’s easy to book in with your local THCP practice for a free hearing assessment.

Some of the key signs of hearing loss include:

It sounds as though people are mumbling when they speak

You frequently have to ask people to repeat themselves

You have to concentrate more while listening in conversations

You’re listening to the TV at a volume that’s uncomfortable for others

Talking to someone about hearing loss can be a tricky and sensitive subject. It is common for people to dismiss your concerns and deny there is an issue with their hearing for some time. Try to plan the conversation and what you want to say, be compassionate and emphasise the positive outcomes.

Hearing starts with the brain.

• Our ears and brain work together, with our brain doing most of the hard work.

• Our brain uses neuro pathways to carry info from the ear to the brain.

• When our hearing is compromised, our brain has to work harder to fill in the blanks. This increases what’s called our ‘listening effort’.

• The extra work puts a strain on the brain, leaving us tired and frustrated.

• Plus, when you lose your hearing, your brain stops using those pathways (it’s a case of use it or lose it), which is known as auditory deprivation.

• This leads to a decline in how well your brain does other things e.g. memory and speech understanding.

• What’s more, not hearing well means people often choose to socialise less – as they can no longer follow or engage in the conversation. This can lead to social isolation and depression, which in themselves are recognised as increased risk factors for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Hearing Test

All our hearing assessments are completely free of charge.

A hearing assessment can last anything from 30 to 90 minutes. Our audiologists will give you as much time as you need to ensure that you get the best possible care and all the information you need out of your appointment.

First, you’ll meet one of our friendly and caring audiologists. They have years of experience helping people hear better and feel more connected to the world around them.

• First they’ll take a detailed medical and personal history relevant to your hearing.

• They’ll take time to understand your lifestyle and how you hear in different situations. The more you can tell them, the more they can help.

• They’ll then examine the health of your ear drums, measure the function of your middle ear, and perform a hearing test in order to detect what levels you hear particular frequencies.

• When it’s finished they’ll discuss the results and build a hearing plan with you.

Yes, we think that’s a great idea. Having someone with you means you’ll feel at ease. It’s also useful for them to hear the information, too. Afterwards you can chat things through and make decisions together. It’s worth remembering that hearing loss affects those around you too, so they’ll be just as keen to support you on the journey to better hearing. Plus, if you decide to try a hearing aid when you are in your appointment, a familiar voice is always the best thing to hear, not least because you’ll notice an improvement immediately when they speak to you!

Hearing Aids

Once you’ve had your hearing test, we’ll let you know. The audiologist will talk you through which types of hearing aid would be best for your hearing loss and lifestyle. Together you can create a hearing plan. You can try a hearing aid, to see what it feels and sounds like, too.

We stock all sorts of hearing aids. Some aids fit snugly inside your ear. Some aids tuck discreetly behind your ear. They come in a range of different styles and colours, as well as a range of technology levels depending on your individual requirements. With invisible, connected and rechargeable hearing aids all available, your audiologist can help you take your pick from the world’s most advanced hearing devices.

The cost of your hearing aid depends on the make and model you choose. But we have devices to suit all budgets.

Plus:

• You can spread the cost – with our payment plan options.

• Enjoy free aftercare – including complimentary ear-wax removal.

• Free batteries for 3-5 years

• Free warranty for 3-5 years, with 100% peace of mind

Not at all. Hearing aids now come in several different styling options including Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) and Completely-In-Canal (CIC) – they are incredibly small and discreet to suit all preferences.

Yes. Hearing aids are designed to fit discreetly behind or inside the ear and will not interfere with your glasses.

Ear Care

Ear wax should only ever be removed by a fully trained hearing care professional. Using a cotton bud can push the wax further into the ear canal. This could potentially damage your ear drum, which is vital for hearing well.

£40 for one ear or £75 for both.

Hearing Protection

Yes. As part of our hearing services we can create custom-made hearing protection and ear plugs for most activities and lifestyles, including swimming and shooting. We also provide specialist hearing protection for musicians, motorcyclists and more.

Yes. Our custom-made swimming ear plugs are priced from £79. They’re great to help avoid getting water in your ear and reduce the risk of infections.